With the UCFB Sports Entrepreneur Competition set to return for a fifth consecutive year, we thought we’d highlight some of the previous winners and see how their businesses are getting on.
Alfie Crickmar, who studies BA (Hons) Sports Business & Coaching at UCFB Wembley, set up the app VT Coach to provide a learning resource for primary school teachers who teach physical education as part of their in the area…
How has winning the cash prize helped you to progress your business since you won?
Winning the cash prize has enabled me to turn my ideas into reality; seeking investment at the beginning of your business is a real advantage. I have been able to invest the funds into meaningful resources that hopefully will kick start my business.
How invaluable has the expertise and help from Brendan Flood been?
Having someone like Brendan in your corner is invaluable due to his experience and connections in the sporting world. I hope to continuously work with Brendan in the future, for sure.
How would you describe the experience of presenting to the competition board?
Presenting in front of business investors was scary, but the key is preparation and passion. From my experience of pitching I learned a lot about what it takes to sell a product.
Please can you describe how you came up with your business idea and why?
I came up with VT Coach when delivering PE sessions in primary schools. I noticed the current scheme of work was out dated and not efficient. From my knowledge in coaching and the increase use of technology, I put the two together and that was my product.
What’s your message to students thinking of entering the 2019 edition?
My message to students entering this year’s competition would be patient, not everything is going to fall into place straight away. In addition, knowledge. Be the expert in what you want to create, that way your product is more bulletproof.
